Actor Sandeep Kapoor, who is currently seen in Oh Humnava Tum Dena Saath Mera, reflects on the meaning of freedom, the courage to follow one’s dreams and the values that continue to define India. This Independence Day, the actor opens up about the freedoms people often take for granted and the importance of using them responsibly.
Speaking about a freedom that people often overlook, Sandeep says, “I think one freedom people take for granted is freedom of speech. This freedom is powerful as we can question injustice, share ideas and also hold people accountable. But there is also a very thin line, and there should be respect, truthfulness and a willingness to listen to others.”
For Sandeep, independence is closely connected to being honest with oneself, both personally and professionally. He shares, “I feel the most independent as an artist when I approach a character with honesty and can dictate my own imagination and emotions. Every character gives me a new perspective while allowing me to stay true to myself. In my personal life, I feel independent when I make choices with courage and accept the responsibility that comes with them.”
The actor also recalls a major turning point in his own life when he chose to leave behind a successful corporate career to pursue acting. “The biggest moment in my life came in 2013 when I chose to leave my career as a vice president in a multinational company and shifted to Mumbai to become an actor. That was an act of courage for me, as I left my high-profile job to pursue my passion, start afresh in life and make a career out of it,” he says.
Talking about the value he hopes India never loses, Sandeep highlights the country’s unity in diversity. “One value I hope never changes is India’s unity in diversity. The spirit of respecting each other’s cultures, religions and traditions, and standing by each other in difficult times, is the greatest strength of India,” he says.
Among the Indians who have inspired him, Sandeep names former President and renowned scientist Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. He says, “The one man who inspired me the most is Dr. Abdul Kalam. What inspired me most about him was his humility. Being the President of India and such a successful scientist, he remained grounded, approachable and deeply committed to our country. His life reminds me that true greatness comes from character and service to society, not just titles and achievements.”
As a message to the younger generation, Sandeep urges them to understand the responsibility that comes with freedom. “The message I want to give the next generation is to never take their freedom for granted. Whatever freedom they enjoy today comes from the sacrifices of countless people. Value that freedom by respecting the rights of others and responsibly standing up for what is right, with kindness and integrity,” he concludes.
